5 Smart Tips for Maintaining Your Kitchenware
5 Smart Tips for Maintaining Your Kitchenware
Of all the rooms in your home, the kitchen tends to require the most attention. This is especially true when it comes to your equipment. Needless to say that pots, pans, knives and other daily utensils don’t come cheap. It’s important to take care of them.
Not only will regular maintenance ensure that your cutlery and crockery last longer, but it will also save you time, money and effort. Here are some smart tips for keeping your kitchenware in pristine condition.
Sharpen Your Knives
There’s nothing more frustrating than a dull knife. It’s even more dangerous than a sharp one, as having to apply more pressure increases your likelihood of slipping and getting a painful cut. Aside from having your knives sharpened by a professional, you can also do it yourself with a whetstone or knife sharpener.
Don’t forget to keep your knives protected with knife guards during storage. They’re cheap and will save you from any injuries when rummaging around the drawer. Wash the blades in hot water and dish soap before drying with a cloth.
Separate Stain from Steel
When it comes to cookware materials, stainless steel is a great option. However, it’s only as stainless as you can make it. This is why you need to clean your metals properly. Make sure to use heat-resistant nitrile gloves, so you can wash your stainless steel kitchenware without fear of burning or irritating your skin.
Skip the dishwasher and opt for a more gentle and thorough hand wash. Get the water as hot as you can make it (this is where gloves come in handy) and use a non-abrasive scrubber to get rid of any gunk or grime. Let pots sit for some time to separate the oils before cleaning and don’t let them air dry.
Don’t Let Wood Wither
Aside from general washing, wooden tools like cutting boards, bowls, spoons and spatulas should be treated with a suitable oil regularly throughout the year. Non-toxic walnut oil is a popular choice as it protects the material and keeps it looking new. Make sure to lightly warm any wooden surfaces before application.
Care for Your Cast Iron
As you can probably agree, cast iron skillets aren’t the easiest to clean after being subject to fat, oil and seasoning. It might seem reasonable to soak in water with soap before using a sponge to remove the hardened layer. However, this can harm more than it helps.
The better solution is to pour a small amount of oil onto the pan before using kosher salt to gently scrub off any contaminants. You can then use a wadded-up paper towel to remove the dirty layer. A quick wash before drying with a cotton cloth and your work is done.
Remember the Stove
While more of an appliance, you may be wondering how to keep your stove clean. After all, it only takes a few pots and pans to leave splashes of oil and grime in every corner. Start by remembering to prevent boil-overs. Minimizing spillage will reduce the amount of cleaning work from the get-go.
If you see anything flying out, promptly tending to it with a damp sponge or paper towel while it’s still warm makes for easier cleaning. For anything that remains, you can use a 50-50 solution of vinegar and water along with dishwashing liquid for more effective scrubbing. A damp cloth dipped in baking soda works great for grimy oven windows.
As a bonus tip, opt for natural cleaning products and materials when possible. This will reduce the presence of chemicals and other potentially harmful substances in your kitchen. Aside from that, it’s as simple as getting into a routine and ensuring that everything stays clean throughout the week. Your kitchenware will appreciate the love and attention.
